Marine Drive Station

Marine Drive Station Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction to Marine Drive Station

Located at the intersection of Cambie Street and Southwest Marine Drive in Vancouver’s historic Marpole neighborhood, Marine Drive Station stands as a vital gateway to South Vancouver’s energetic urban landscape. This Canada Line SkyTrain station is more than a transit stop—it’s a hub of history, culture, and progressive urban development. Since opening in 2009, Marine Drive Station has become notable as Vancouver’s only above-ground Canada Line station, boasting a distinctive elevated design with panoramic city views and direct access to the North Arm Bridge. The station provides seamless connections between downtown Vancouver, Richmond, and Vancouver International Airport, serving both commuters and visitors.

Marine Drive Station is integrally linked with the award-winning Marine Gateway development, a LEED Gold-certified mixed-use community completed in 2015. This development embodies Vancouver’s commitment to transit-oriented development (TOD), blending retail, office, and residential spaces with extensive public amenities to foster sustainable and pedestrian-friendly urban living. The ongoing expansion through Marine Gateway 2 will further enhance the area with new residential units, industrial spaces, and green areas.

Crucially, Marine Drive Station sits on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, reflecting a deep Indigenous heritage. The station’s modern infrastructure, paired with its historical and cultural significance, makes it a model for Vancouver’s urban vision.

Visitors benefit from comprehensive amenities: accessible facilities, an adjacent bus loop with multiple routes, and proximity to attractions such as Marine Gateway Shopping Centre, Fraser River waterfront trails, and Marpole Community Centre. The nearby Marine Drive Monument offers further historical and cultural exploration through guided tours and educational programs.

This detailed guide provides everything you need to plan your visit: hours, ticketing, accessibility, transit connections, nearby attractions, and upcoming developments. Discover how Marine Drive Station exemplifies the future of sustainable and connected city living in Vancouver. (Marine Drive Station Visitor Guide, Perkins+Will on Marine Gateway, Urban Land Institute Case Study, Vancouver Heritage - Marine Drive Monument)

Welcome to Marine Drive Station: A Gateway to Vancouver’s Vibrant South
Visiting Marine Drive Station: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Historical Context and Urban Development
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
Visual Tour
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Marine Gateway Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Transit Access, and Community Highlights
Marine Drive Monument: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Exploring Vancouver’s Historical Sites
Summary and Travel Recommendations
References and Resources

Welcome to Marine Drive Station: A Gateway to Vancouver’s Vibrant South

Marine Drive Station, at the heart of Marpole, is more than a transit hub—it’s a vibrant urban center rich in history, culture, and modern amenities. Whether you are a local or visiting for the first time, this guide covers everything from practical visitor information to the area’s fascinating narrative.

Visiting Marine Drive Station: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Station Hours: 5:00 AM to 1:30 AM daily (aligned with Canada Line service schedules)
Note: Service hours may vary on holidays and special events. Confirm with TransLink for up-to-date schedules.

Ticket Information

Purchase Options: Vending machines at the station, TransLink mobile app, authorized retail outlets
Fares: Vary by zones; single-ride tickets, day passes, and Compass Cards available
Contactless Payment: Credit cards and mobile wallets accepted

Accessibility

Fully accessible with elevators, escalators, and tactile guidance for visually impaired passengers
Level boarding platforms and seamless transfers between SkyTrain and buses
Assistance is available upon request

Travel Tips

Adjacent bus loop serves routes #3, #10, #15, #17, and #100, connecting throughout South Vancouver
Use a Compass Card for easier, discounted travel
Avoid peak hours for a more comfortable journey

Historical Context and Urban Development

Indigenous Heritage and Early History

Marine Drive Station is located on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. The Marpole neighborhood, one of Vancouver’s oldest, has long served as a vital corridor for transportation and trade, especially due to its proximity to the Fraser River.

The Canada Line and Station Development

Marine Drive Station opened in August 2009 as the only above-ground Canada Line station within Vancouver. Its elevated design features two side platforms with glass curtain walls, offering natural light and sweeping views. The North Arm Bridge provides direct access for both transit and active transportation modes like cycling and walking.

The Marine Gateway Development

Completed in 2015, Marine Gateway is a LEED Gold-certified, mixed-use community adjacent to the station. It combines retail, office, and over 460 homes, fostering a walkable, transit-focused environment.

Expansion: Marine Gateway 2

Marine Gateway 2 is poised to add 1,400 new rental homes, industrial spaces, community amenities, and a two-acre elevated park. A pedestrian bridge will link directly to Marine Gateway’s high street, further enhancing connectivity.

Nearby Attractions and Amenities

Marine Gateway Shopping Centre: Retail, dining, and a movie theatre steps from the station
Fraser River Waterfront: Scenic walks along the North Arm Bridge and trails
Marpole Community Centre: Cultural events and recreation
Cycling Routes: Access to Vancouver’s broader cycling network

Visual Tour

All images include descriptive alt text for accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Marine Drive Station’s visiting hours?
A: 5:00 AM to 1:30 AM daily, matching Canada Line service.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Fares vary by zone; options include single-ride, day passes, and Compass Cards. Check TransLink for current rates.

Q: Is the station wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with elevators, ramps, and tactile navigation aids.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited street parking is nearby. Transit, cycling, and walking are encouraged.

Q: What bus routes connect here?
A: Routes #3, #10, #15, #17, and #100.

Q: What attractions are close by?
A: Marine Gateway shopping center, Fraser River waterfront, Marpole Community Centre.

Marine Gateway Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Transit Access, and Community Highlights

Urban Transformation and Architectural Features

Marine Gateway is a landmark of Vancouver’s move toward sustainable, transit-oriented development. Once an industrial site, the area was reimagined as a vibrant mixed-use hub with the opening of Marine Drive Station in 2009. The result is a 4.8-acre site featuring:

Two neighborhood plazas
A 250,000-square-foot office tower
27 retailers and restaurants
Two residential towers (415 condos and 46 rental suites)
An 11-screen Cineplex Theatre
LEED Gold certification, with green roofs, efficient stormwater management, and a district energy system (Perkins+Will, Urban Land Institute)

Transit Integration

Canada Line: Direct rapid transit to downtown Vancouver (17 minutes) and YVR Airport (9 minutes)
Bus Loop: Routes 3, 10, 100, and others serve the area
Cycling: Dedicated bike storage and mobility center
Accessibility: Elevators, ramps, wide pedestrian pathways

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Retail Hours: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM (Mon–Sat), 11:00 AM–6:00 PM (Sun)
Cineplex Theatre: Opens at 10:00 AM daily
Plazas: Open from dawn until 11:00 PM
Admission: Free, except for theatre tickets

Community Amenities

Major grocery store, pharmacy, cafes, and restaurants
Public events and art markets in the high street plaza
Office space supporting over 2,000 jobs
Residential units with panoramic views (Urban Land Institute)

Sustainability

District energy system (ambient-loop technology)
Water conservation and reduced parking to encourage transit use
Green roofs and extensive landscaping (Perkins+Will)

Visitor Tips

Getting There: Use Canada Line or bus. Minimal public parking on-site.
Events: Check Marine Gateway’s website or Instagram for event updates.
Accessibility: Fully accessible for all visitors.

FAQ

Q: Is there an entry fee to Marine Gateway?
A: No, except for Cineplex Theatre showings.

Q: Are there guided tours or special events?
A: Art markets and events take place regularly; see Marine Gateway’s official channels.

Q: What’s nearby?
A: Fraser River waterfront, George Park, and easy Canada Line access to downtown.

Ongoing Development

Marine Gateway’s success has spurred further high-density development, with new residential and commercial towers in planning or construction, ensuring the area’s continued vibrancy (Canadian Architect).

Marine Drive Monument: An Iconic South Vancouver Landmark

Overview & Significance

The Marine Drive Monument is a celebrated historical site commemorating South Vancouver’s cultural evolution and urban development. It features inscriptions and art that highlight key moments in the area’s history.

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Open Daily: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM (closed Dec 25 & Jan 1)
Admission: Free; guided tours $10 per person (book in advance)

Getting There

SkyTrain: Canada Line to Marine Drive Station
Bus: Served by multiple routes
Parking: Available at Marine Gateway

On-Site Experience

Guided tours available by appointment
Fully accessible with ramps, seating, and audio guides
Hosts heritage events and educational programs

Nearby Historical Sites

Marpole Museum (Indigenous and early settler history)
Punjabi Market (cultural district)
Oak Street Bridge (engineering landmark)

Practical Tips

Best visited in spring-to-fall for events and weather
Family-friendly and safe, with educational programs for children

Virtual Resources

Take a virtual tour or find maps and video guides online

Summary and Travel Recommendations

Marine Drive Station is central to Vancouver’s evolving urban landscape, blending historic roots with innovative transit and community development. Its strategic location, robust transit connections, and accessible facilities make it indispensable for residents and visitors navigating South Vancouver. The integration with Marine Gateway demonstrates top-tier transit-oriented development, offering retail, residential, office, and cultural spaces within easy reach of rapid transit.

Culturally, the site honors the Indigenous heritage of the region, while the Marine Drive Monument and nearby attractions offer meaningful historical and cultural exploration. Ongoing expansions, like Marine Gateway 2, promise to enhance livability and connectivity further.

For your visit:

Use Canada Line or bus routes for easy access
Purchase tickets via TransLink kiosks, the app, or Compass Card
Explore shopping, dining, and cultural sights nearby
Take part in community events and use sustainable travel options

Marine Drive Station exemplifies Vancouver’s commitment to a connected, sustainable, and culturally vibrant future. Enhance your visit by downloading the Audiala app for real-time transit info and community updates. (Marine Gateway Official Site, TransLink Transit Info, Vancouver Heritage)

References and Resources

Marine Drive Station: Your Complete Visitor Guide to Vancouver’s Historic Transit Hub and Surrounding Attractions, 2025 (Marine Gateway Official Site)
Marine Drive Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Its Role in Vancouver’s Transit Network, 2025 (TransLink Transit Info)
Marine Gateway Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Transit Access, and Community Highlights, 2025 (Perkins+Will), (Urban Land Institute Case Study), (Canadian Architect)
Marine Drive Monument: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Exploring Vancouver’s Historical Sites, 2025 (Vancouver Heritage)